Coaches at Eastwood Heights Elementary School are trying out a new routine in an effort to improve math scores and make it fun for the students. Through routine exercises, such as jumping jacks and running, coaches Carlos Licon and Ruben Muñoz are using math concepts in their physical education classes through a program they named the "Math Olympics."

Assistant Principal Reyna Rodriguez said the use of math in the physical education classes helps improve learning and classroom scores by allowing the students use math concepts into their everyday activities.

"This is just another way to support the teachers and to motivate the kids," Rodriguez said. "Because sometimes when they are in class and sitting and learning, it's one thing. But when they are up and exercising they are motivated."

Rodriguez said the coaches and the teachers began working jointly this year to put the program together. The teachers keep the coaches informed on what concepts their students are having trouble with and the coaches reinforce those concepts.

"All the credit goes to the teachers in the classroom," Licon said. "I mean, we have fun with the sports and we let them (the students) laugh and run around. But at the same time, we were trying to figure out how to help them."

Licon and Muñoz have the students recite number patterns together, with the assistance of a video and dance music.

While reciting their number patterns, Licon also instructs them to do jumping jacks, jump, and run in place. The music keeps them motivated and makes it exciting, Licon said.

Once they have completed that portion of the lesson -- Licon and Muñoz split the students up into teams to compete against each other in the Math Olympics. The competitive aspect makes it fun, Licon said.

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